BIM in the Cloud: Modelo Enhances BIM Processes
Words: Dan Kamys
Create interactive 3D presentations with complex BIM and CAD files easily in the web.
Courtesy of Modelo
By Meghan Barrett
Building Information Modeling (BIM) has been around for a while, but has recently been getting a lot of attention in the architecture, engineering and construction (AEC) industry. The question is, why should AEC firms adopt BIM into their workflow? By integrating BIM into their workflow, professionals prevent significant confusion down the road by focusing on performance-driven design and embracing collaboration.
It’s obvious that 3D modeling is a crucial part of BIM. Modelo takes this a step further to enhance BIM processes. Now AEC professionals can drag and drop their BIM models into the web-based Modelo platform to present, collaborate and visualize their 3D models online and in virtual reality (VR). The process of visualizing CAD and BIM designs in a web browser is faster and more efficient because communication and feedback are clear and organized. Furthermore, accessing the designs is much easier for all stakeholders, as only an internet connection is required. With Modelo, professionals can review and collaborate on BIM files in the cloud, create interactive 3D presentations and store all relevant assets in one location.
Immerse clients or colleagues in a VR view of your BIM and CAD files in just seconds. Courtesy of ModeloWhat Does BIM Compatibility Mean to Modelo?
Put simply, save time and effort by pairing BIM with Modelo. AEC professionals work in environments that are highly collaborative and iterative, meaning new tools should simplify their workflows, not make them more complicated. Modelo allows you to say goodbye to unorganized feedback, paper drawings and outdated presentation platforms like PowerPoint — and say hello to organized feedback and communication directly on designs, interactive 3D presentations and immersive VR sessions.
Visualize BIM Files Faster in VR
Visualize any model at any stage without downloading any software. Modelo is compatible with BIM products like Revit and Vectorworks, as well as Rhino, SketchUp and 3ds Max. In fact, Vectorworks offers an integrated plug-in for Modelo. In just seconds, AEC professionals can immerse clients or colleagues in VR instances of their BIM and CAD designs to explore designs in a new space like never before.
3D Collaboration in the Cloud
Collaboration is more than giving design feedback. Collaborating on BIM files means that everyone is an active participant in the whole design process. All project collaborators can access models, categorized by phases in Modelo, allowing design and AEC personnel to effectively engage with clients, consultants or stakeholders in real time. Team members can even @mention one another directly in the platform to ensure their message is being delivered to the right person.
Interactive 3D Presentations
Creating BIM presentations with Modelo has never been easier. Not only can team members take meaningful screenshots, but they also can comment directly on 3D models. These comments then act as a navigation path for a 3D presentation. Present a BIM model on the web to clients or colleagues with ease in just minutes. Now, team members can work up to the point of a presentation and spend more time designing, and less time creating presentations.
Showcase 3D models on a website or blog using Modelo, like this version of the Vanna Venturi House. Courtesy of Modelo
File Storage Made Easy
Instead of switching back and forth between different platforms to find files, store all 2D and 3D files together in Modelo’s secure Assets Folder. Reference inspirational images during a presentation or even sketch directly on 2D assets. Modelo replaces FTP servers, DropBox and WeTransfer and is compatible with all file formats, including PDF, GIF and JPEG.
The Future of BIM
Overall, BIM is compatible with Modelo because at the core is a shared belief in collaboration. Modelo fully supports BIM and is consistently developing new features to strengthen this connection, while also making BIM more accessible in the cloud. By integrating BIM and Modelo into AEC workflows, collaboration and presentation will be at a peak, resulting in high-performance built spaces that will last a lifetime.
To create an account for free, sign up at www.app.modelo.io/register.
Meghan Barrett is marketing specialist for Modelo. She can be reached at mbarrett@modelo.io.